Carney Calls for Prince Andrew’s Removal from Line of Succession

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has publicly called for the removal of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the royal line of succession, citing his “deplorable” actions. Carney made the statement while speaking to reporters in Tokyo on Thursday, March 5, 2026.

Mountbatten-Windsor’s Situation

Despite being stripped of his royal titles in October due to his connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, Mountbatten-Windsor remains eighth in line to the British throne. Carney believes this is unacceptable and that his removal from the line of succession is a matter of principle.

Canada’s Position

As King Charles III is the head of state in Canada, Carney emphasized the importance of addressing this issue. He stated that there is a process for removing someone from the line of succession and that it should be followed. Carney, a former governor of the Bank of England, acknowledged that Mountbatten-Windsor is “well down” the line of succession, but maintained that “the point of principle stands.”

International Support

Canada is not alone in its stance. In February, both the Australian and New Zealand governments indicated their support for removing Mountbatten-Windsor from the line of succession following his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wrote to his British counterpart, Keir Starmer, confirming Australia’s backing. The Guardian reported on the letter, quoting Albanese as saying, “These are grave allegations and Australians take them seriously.”

Recent Developments

Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on February 19 on suspicion of misconduct in public office, a first for a member of the royal family in modern history. The allegations stem from documents released by the US Justice Department relating to Epstein and his associates. Emails released appeared to indicate Mountbatten-Windsor sharing reports of official visits. The Associated Press notes that Mountbatten-Windsor has denied any wrongdoing and has not been charged with a criminal offense.

Buckingham Palace’s Response

Buckingham Palace has indicated it would not oppose plans to remove Mountbatten-Windsor from the line of succession. King Charles stated after his brother’s arrest that “the law must take its course.”

Succession Implications

Currently, Prince William is the heir to the throne, followed by his three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. Removing Mountbatten-Windsor would not immediately alter the line of succession but would reinforce the principle that royal status is contingent upon appropriate conduct.